The contribution made by the Catholic Church and the voluntary organisations (NGOs) functioning under its leadership to the making of modern India and to the nation’s holistic development is written in golden letters in history. Inspired by the mission of translating Christ’s love and compassion into concrete action, the Church has authored a remarkable chapter in the rebuilding of the nation through selfless service. Both before and after India attained independence, the Church brought the light of knowledge and hope to remote villages where even basic infrastructure was absent. This sincere commitment laid a strong foundation for the country’s progress.
The transformation brought about by Catholic institutions in the field of education has been extraordinary. By establishing schools, colleges, and technical training institutes even in the most underdeveloped regions of the country, the Church has ensured access to quality education for all, irrespective of caste, creed, or social background. This has contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge and employment opportunities throughout society. Equally noteworthy is the Church’s contribution to healthcare. From large multi-specialty hospitals to dispensaries in remote villages, Church institutions have become centres of healing and hope for the poor and the destitute. During times of crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the unwavering dedication shown by the Church’s charitable institutions and volunteers proved to be a tremendous support to the nation. Furthermore, hundreds of homes for the destitute and palliative care centres continue to serve abandoned children, elderly persons neglected by their families, persons with disabilities, and those afflicted by leprosy. Even during times of epidemics, the Church’s willingness to risk its own safety in order to wipe away the tears of the marginalised and care for the suffering remains a shining testimony to the love and compassion of Christ.
Bringing the marginalised, especially Dalits and Indigenous communities living on the fringes of society, into the mainstream has always remained one of our foremost priorities. The various initiatives undertaken to safeguard their human dignity and improve their quality of life have transformed the lives of countless families. At the same time, Catholic organisations have successfully empowered women socially and economically through self-help groups and microfinance initiatives. By enabling women to stand on their own feet, these efforts have strengthened families and, consequently, contributed to the peace and prosperity of society as a whole.
Today, however, the voluntary sector is facing an unprecedented crisis. The recent amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) have placed severe obstacles before charitable activities and the smooth functioning of voluntary organisations. Stringent laws and restrictive regulations that effectively tie the hands and feet of voluntary organisations amount to denying essential assistance to those who need it most. The people who suffer the gravest consequences of these amendments are poor patients, underprivileged children who depend on educational assistance, and large sections of the marginalised population. Such harsh legal provisions can therefore only be regarded as an intrusion upon the rights and welfare of the poor.
No matter how great the challenges or adverse circumstances before us, the Catholic Church can never retreat, even by a single step, from doing good and showing compassion to fellow human beings. Rather than becoming discouraged by the growing restrictions imposed upon the voluntary sector, we shall continue with renewed determination to share Christ’s compassionate love with the world. For bringing consolation to the poor and embracing the marginalised is an integral part of the Church’s spiritual mission. Undeterred by challenges, we remain firmly committed to proclaiming the Gospel through love and selfless service.
The poor and the suffering constitute the true soul of every nation. Instead of weakening the movements that wipe away their tears, those entrusted with governance must adopt policies that are more compassionate and more responsive to the welfare and survival of the poor. Laws and constitutional systems exist to safeguard the well-being and security of even the last and least among the citizens. Legislation that places chains upon the hands of compassion and fraternal charity ultimately wounds the poor and the marginalised themselves. While transparency and accountability are indeed essential, they should never diminish the zeal of those who serve nor deprive the hungry, the sick, and the vulnerable of the assistance they rightfully deserve. Rather than constraining voluntary movements that work shoulder to shoulder with governments in promoting national development and alleviating poverty, public policy should embrace them with greater understanding, appreciation, and compassion. Laws, therefore, must never become barriers to the flow of mercy; instead, they should serve as instruments that enable greater relief, hope, and dignity to reach the least and the most vulnerable among us.
Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil
